Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

Name: Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn - One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts; 2 medium zucchinis; 1.5 cups corn kernels; 5 cloves garlic; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons butter; Fresh lime juice; Cilantro

Published: July 23, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup as everything cooks in one pan, making it perfect for busy nights.
Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic butter and spices elevates the dish, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from zucchini and corn, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.
Versatile Meal: Easily adaptable for different tastes; add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your preference.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn recipe efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some must-have kitchen items to make your cooking experience smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Knife
Cutting board
Spatula
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking of the chicken and vegetables while allowing you to sauté everything together.
Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing through chicken breasts and vegetables quick and safe.
Cutting board: Provides a sturdy surface for chopping ingredients, ensuring you keep your workspace organized.
Spatula: Ideal for flipping chicken pieces without tearing them apart, helping maintain their juicy texture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb chicken breasts (skinless, boneless, sliced)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or more)
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (or more)
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
black pepper (freshly ground, to taste)

For the Vegetables

2 zucchini (medium, sliced)
1.5 cups corn kernels (cooked (about 3 corn ears – corn on the cob))

For the Flavoring

5 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (or more)
4 tablespoons butter (divided)
1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Once hot:
1. Add the sliced chicken breasts to the skillet.
2. Season with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

After the chicken has browned:
1. Push it to one side of the skillet.
2. Add sliced zucchini and corn kernels to the other side.
3. Stir occasionally until zucchini softens slightly.

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic & Butter

Add minced garlic to the skillet along with 2 tablespoons of butter.
Stir everything together gently until well combined.

Step 5: Finish with Lime Juice & Cilantro

Drizzle freshly squeezed lime juice over the mixture.
Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top before serving.

Enjoy your Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn! This easy recipe will quickly become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, these serving suggestions will make your dinner even more enjoyable.

Add Fresh Greens

A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the chicken.

Serve with Rice

Fluffy rice, whether white or brown, can soak up the garlic butter sauce, making every bite a little more flavorful.

Pair with Quinoa

Quinoa adds a nutritious touch and its nutty flavor contrasts nicely with the chicken and veggies.

Top with Avocado

Slices of fresh avocado on top provide creaminess and a boost of healthy fats, balancing the meal perfectly.

Use Tortillas

Warm tortillas can be used to wrap leftovers or enjoy as a side for scooping up the chicken and corn.

Garnish with Lime Wedges

Fresh lime wedges bring a zesty finish to each plate, enhancing the overall flavor profile of this dish.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

To ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. They will guide you in achieving restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh zucchini and corn to maximize flavor and texture in your dish.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dish before serving; feel free to add more smoked paprika or chili powder for extra depth of flavor.
Cook Chicken Evenly: Ensure that your chicken slices are uniform in thickness for even cooking throughout.
Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain moisture before serving.
Experiment with Herbs: Adding herbs like parsley or basil can elevate the dish further by providing an aromatic touch.
Store Leftovers Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for maximum freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

Complementing your Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is easy when you choose from these tasty side dishes. Each option brings something unique to the table while keeping the meal balanced.

Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for dipping into any leftover sauce.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs add heartiness that complements the main dish beautifully.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides color and nutrition while its mild flavor pairs well with garlic butter.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that’s light yet filling; it also absorbs flavors well from the chicken.
Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad mixed with bell peppers and herbs gives a bright contrast to rich flavors.
Grilled Asparagus: Charred asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds elegance and a hint of smokiness to your meal.
Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash introduces sweetness that balances out savory elements of the dish.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage can offer a refreshing bite alongside warm chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

Ignoring the Chicken Thickness: If the chicken is not sliced evenly, it may cook unevenly. Ensure that the slices are about the same thickness for even cooking.
Overcooking the Zucchini: Zucchini cooks quickly; overcooking can make it mushy. Add zucchini to the pan only when the chicken is nearly done to retain its texture.
Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Taste as you go! If you don’t adjust salt and pepper during cooking, your dish may end up bland. Always season throughout the cooking process.
Not Letting the Butter Melt Completely: If you add garlic before the butter has melted, it can burn. Allow your butter to fully melt and bubble before adding garlic for perfect flavor.
Rushing the Cooking Process: Cooking on high heat might seem tempting, but it can lead to burnt garlic or uneven chicken. Use medium heat for a well-cooked meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) on medium power, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, reheat while stirring until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn – One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal?

This dish pairs nicely with rice or quinoa. A fresh salad also complements its flavors well.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen corn works just as well and is convenient. Just add it directly without thawing.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, consider increasing the chili powder or adding some red pepper flakes during cooking.

Can I replace chicken with another protein?

Yes! Turkey or beef can be great substitutes if you prefer other proteins over chicken.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini and Corn is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste. This one-pan meal is sure to impress both family and friends, making it a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner rotation!

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